Lot 1847

A lovely example with medium gray fields, lighter gray devices, and attractive peripheral toning. This is the only die marriage known (to date) for 1815 quarter dollars. First year of issue and, along with the half eagle, one of just two collectible denominations to bear this date. The half eagles dated 1815 are extremely rare. Mintage consisted of 69,232 coins delivered in December 1815 and an additional quantity of 20,003 coins in early January 1816.

This lot marks the beginning of the Russell J. Logan Collection of Capped Bust quarter dollars. A total of 75 coins represent nearly all known varieties. In fact, the series includes exactly 75 varieties, although a few of the Logan coins represent varying die states. Of these 75 varieties, this collection includes 68 different. Those missing include 1820 B-3, 1821 B-6, 1827 B-1, 1827 B-2, 1831 B-7, 1836 B-5, and 1837 B-6 (very recently discovered).

Very faint clash marks are visible on the obverse and reverse, particularly from the scroll through top of the date. In 1991 Stack's described this clash mark as: "Unlisted arc die break through the tops of 1815."

This was the first coinage of the new Capped Bust design prepared by artist and engraver John Reich. Prior to production of these coins, the last quarter dollars were minted in 1807. Just one die marriage was coined in this year. The mintage included 69,232 struck in 1815 and another 20,003 coins minted early in 1816 and delivered January 10 of that year.

The 1815 Mint Report recorded a total of just 69,867 coins produced at the Mint during the year. This coinage consisted of 635 half eagles and 69,232 quarter dollars. No other coins were produced. Mint Director Robert Patterson noted "The high price of gold and silver bullion for some time past in the current paper money of the country has prevented, and, as long as this shall continue to be the case, must necessarily prevent, deposits of these metals being made for coinage to any considerable amount." It was not a good year for the Mint with total coinage amounting to $20,483 and total expenses being $14,495.14, according to this document.